Tag Archive for 'healthy snacks'

It is that time of the year again. The long awaited December festive season. Friends and families plan to spend long lazy days around tables laden with the most tempting of foods. Everyone is excited to be together. There are lots of laughs, and sometimes (especially when we spend time with family) the occasional fight. In the midst of the excitement you may even have occasion to get bored. Ever notice how the same stories often get told and retold at Christmas time? Whatever the emotion or the occasion, holiday foods will be available in abundance to treat you, amuse you and console you. It may seem downright impossible to stick to your diet during the holiday season, but take note of the seven weight loss tips below and you may even be able to lose some weight. At the very least, you can minimize the damage. Every pound you gain over the next couple of weeks have to be dealt with next year after all.

Keep your blood sugar levels stable by eating regular healthy meals and snacks that contain plenty of protein and fiber. Remember that simple carbs like sugar and baked goods cause huge fluctuations in your blood sugar which in turn makes it difficult for you to resist temptation. Eat something healthy at least every 4 hours. Examples of good snacks are assorted fresh vegetables with humus dips, almonds and peanuts roasted in the shell. Cheese and wholemeal crackers can also make wonderful snacks, but stick to small portions.

Keep a water bottle with you all the time. You will be surprised how many unnecessary calories water can save you from. Tell yourself you can have any treat you want provided you have half a glass to a glass of water first. Then enjoy the treat. Not only will you automatically eat less, but your energy levels will be up and you will be much more in control of your appetite.

It is that time of the year again. Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year! All over the world people are getting together with their family and friends around tables laden with the most wonderful food and snacks… tempting even the most dedicated dieters amongst us.

The first and most important dieting tip for you this festive season is to appreciate your family and friends and to make sure you fully enjoy this special time of the year. The old motto “everything in moderation” should always be kept in mind, and that goes for your diet too!

The worst thing you can do during this period is to become obsessive about your weight and your diet. Many a dieter failed because they didn’t build enough flexibility into their eating plan, and set unrealistic expectations for themselves. The first time they eat something they shouldn’t have they abandon ship, go on a binge session and declare the diet a failed attempt. Not only do they end up having a rotten time, but they are also doing their bodies more harm than good. Try and stick to your plan as far as possible, but during a festive season like this you are bound to make a little mistake here and there. Forgive yourself and move on.

1. Drink plenty of water. It is very important to drink 8-10 glasses of water every day, whether you are trying to lose weight or not. Water is required by all of the systems in your body to function correctly. If you are dehydrated, your body will try to protect you in all sorts of ways, including retaining as much water as it can. Without water, therefore, your body can also not get rid of the excess fat and toxins while you are trying to lose weight. There are many more reasons for developing a love for water, which we will discuss as a topic all by itself. For know, also keep in mind that your body often confuses hunger with thirst. By making sure that you are properly hydrated, you will be in a better position to control your food portions!

2. Try new types of water. Most people don’t like the idea of drinking 8-10 glasses of plain water each day. Try different types. Maybe you like sparkling waters better. Maybe club soda or even different flavoured waters to add some variety. Just be careful to check the energy contents of the drinks.

3. Be careful of white foods. In general, white foods are best avoided when you want to lose weight. This includes white bread, white rice, white pasta, white sugar and even white fruits. Rather find healthier substitutions that contain whole grains and lots of extra vitamins and minerals. Not only will it look more appetizing, but it will also taste better.Continue reading ‘General tips on nutrition’